A team of renowned British military veterans is set to undertake a formidable Arctic challenge to raise awareness about mental health within the armed forces community. The quartet, comprising Jason “Foxy” Fox, Aldo Kane, Brian Wood MC, and Karl Hinett, will traverse 500 kilometres of Swedish Lapland in an unsupported expedition dubbed “Project Fire and Ice“. This endeavour aims to support SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, and shed light on the mental health struggles faced by service personnel and veterans.

Nearly two decades ago, former British Army soldier Karl Hinett sustained severe injuries during an attack on his Warrior tank in Iraq. His journey to recovery has been marked by resilience and a commitment to advocating for mental health support. Hinett’s personal experiences have fueled his dedication to this cause, leading him to spearhead Project Fire and Ice. He emphasises that the expedition is not just about the physical challenge but also about inspiring others within the military community to seek support and embark on their own journeys of healing.

The team

Each member of the team brings a unique background of military service and adventure.

• Jason “Foxy” Fox. A former Royal Marine Commando and Special Boat Service (SBS) operative, Fox has transitioned into television, notably appearing on Channel 4’s “SAS: Who Dares Wins”. His participation in the expedition underscores his commitment to supporting veterans’ causes.
• Aldo Kane. With a history as a Royal Marines Commando Sniper, Kane has carved out a career as an extreme adventurer. He acknowledges the inherent risks of the Arctic environment, including the potential for frostbite, but views the expedition as an opportunity to promote positive mental health and resilience.
• Brian Wood MC. Awarded the Military Cross for his actions during the Battle of Danny Boy in Iraq, Wood has become an advocate for veterans’ welfare. He recognises the importance of mental health support and sees the expedition as a platform to raise awareness and funds for SSAFA.
• Karl Hinett. Beyond his military service, Hinett has demonstrated remarkable endurance by participating in numerous marathons and securing a silver medal in the 1500-metre race at the 2018 Invictus Games in Australia. His leadership in Project Fire and Ice is a testament to his dedication to the cause.

The challenge

The Montane Lapland Arctic Ultra, which the team will undertake, is renowned for its grueling conditions. Spanning 500 kilometres, the race is divided into two stages: the first covering 185 kilometres and the second 315 kilometres. Participants navigate snowmobile trails through the snow-covered forests of Swedish Lapland, starting and finishing in the town of Överkalix. The course demands exceptional endurance, with temperatures plummeting to –25°C and the constant threat of frostbite. The team will pull sleds weighing up to 60 kilograms, containing all necessary equipment and supplies for the ten-day expedition.

Raising awareness and funds for SSAFA

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been a steadfast supporter of the military community since 1885. In 2023 alone, SSAFA assisted over 53,000 individuals, including veterans, serving personnel, and their families. The organisation offers tailored welfare and wellbeing assistance, recognising the unique challenges of service life. By undertaking Project Fire and Ice, the team aims to raise £100,000 to bolster SSAFA’s efforts in providing vital support to those in need.

The expedition serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health support within the armed forces community. The team’s collective experiences highlight the necessity of accessible resources and open conversations about mental well-being. Their journey through the Arctic is not only a testament to human resilience but also a call to action for increased awareness and support for mental health initiatives.